Herbs, Spices and Foods For Springtime Allergies

By: Susan Yarett

Spring is around the corner and that means seasonal allergies are around the corner too! Allergies arise from the body’s natural reaction to pollen released from particular trees. The trees most commonly to blame for allergies are oak, olive, elm, birch, ash, hickory, poplar, and sycamore.

Allergies are triggered by the body’s own immune system, specifically by mast cells which become unstable and release histamine in response to continual bombardment by allergens in the environment. These histamines are responsible for creating the inflammatory response. As a result, mucus membranes such as those in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs become irritated and swollen. They secrete copious amounts of mucus in an attempt to cleanse the area of allergens.

There are numerous herbs, spices and foods, which can help naturally to prevent and treat unpleasant and annoying springtime allergy symptoms. Just a few will be highlighted below. For best results, wild, organic, non-irradiated herbs, spices and foods should be used to minimize unwanted chemicals and toxins.

Tumeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice commonly used in Indian curries. Due to its active ingredient Curcumin, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Tumeric supports the mucus membranes of sinuses and lungs and is therefore a wonderful and also delicious choice for springtime allergy prevention and relief. Tumeric can also be taken as a supplement.

Stinging Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica) is an herbcontaining histamine, which is exactly what the bodysecretes during an allergic reaction. Natural plant-based histamine helps to desensitize the body to allergens that would otherwise have caused the typical sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes well known to those who suffer from springtime allergies.Stinging Nettle can be used fresh, as a tea or as a supplement in the form of freeze-dried herb.

Parsley inhibits the secretion of allergy-inducinghistamines. It is a rich source of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients such as apigenin and carotenoids. Parsley also raises levels of antioxidant enzymes in the bloodstream.

Onions, Garlic, and Apples all contain high levels of quercetin, which helps fight allergens due to its antihistamine-like action.

Broccoli has high levels of vitamin C and it is known for clearing up blocked sinuses.

Citrus Fruits such as oranges, lemons, lime, and grapefruit also contain large content of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine and therefore a vitamin C rich diet helps in fighting conditions like seasonal allergies.

Supplements are another valuable addition to your repertoire in dealing with spring allergies. Quercetin Plus is a product which blends two ingredients, quercetin and bromelain. Together, they are anti-inflammatory and may inhibit histamine release by stabilizing mast cells. Another supplement,Collinsonia Plus combines the herb Collinsonia Canadensis with Larch Arabinogalactan. This combination is especially good for soothing the inflamed or congested linings of the sinuses during allergy season.

It is best to start consuming these fruits, vegetables, spices and herbs and supplements at least one month prior to the beginning of springtime allergy season, and to continue as well throughout the entire season.

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